Maternity Lu me 67 cm - Dan - Côte d'Ivoire

This traditional statue depicting motherhood was commissioned by chiefs to the finest sculptors. These statues are the portrait of the favored wife. These are particularly carefully crafted, called Lu Me.

In Dan society, sculptures representing women are highly prestigious objects. They enhance both the reputation of their owner and that of the woman depicted. These works, among the most expensive of Dan art, are commissioned by men to pay homage to a particularly admired wife.

These sculptures are made as portraits of the represented women. However, they also highlight the traditional criteria of feminine beauty specific to Dan culture.

Some sculptures, called “lu me,” are shown in the village during public ceremonies. On this occasion, the man who commissioned the work is honored and gains social prestige. These figures can also be kept in small houses and are only displayed during special ceremonies.